October 14, 2020
RE: Hawaii Restaurant Card Program
Dear KCC Parishioners,
A new program will soon launch to provide struggling Hawaii residents with $500 prepaid debit cards to use at local eateries and restaurants across the state.
Beginning Friday, thousands of qualified recipients are expected to automatically receive the cards in the mail as part of the state’s new Hawaii Restaurant Card Program to help residents affected by the pandemic-related economic downturn, as well as to sustain restaurants that have suffered from the lockdown on activities.
The Mastercard debit card can be used at restaurants, including fast food eateries, to purchase food and nonalcoholic beverages for takeout or dine-in. The card also may be used to leave tips when making purchases with the card.
The new restaurant card initiative is being funded with $75 million from the federal CARES Act as part of the state’s economic relief program to assist residents who have been receiving unemployment insurance benefits since March.
The cards are slated to be sent to residents who opened an initial unemployment insurance claim with the state on or after March 1, certified their job loss is due to the coronavirus pandemic and received unemployment insurance benefits during September.
Hawaii Restaurant Card Program
>> What: A $500 prepaid restaurant debit card for qualified recipients under a new initiative of $75 million in federal CARES Act funds as part of the state’s economic relief program. The card can be used to purchase food and nonalcoholic beverages at eateries including fast-food restaurants in Hawaii. The card can be used at establishments that accept debit Mastercards.
>> When: Qualified recipients are expected to receive the debit card in the mail beginning Friday. The card can be used until the balance reaches zero or by Dec. 15. To check eligibility, visit
and provide your Social Security number and phone number.
>> Who: Hawaii residents who opened an initial unemployment insurance claim with the state on or after March 1, certified their job loss is due to the coronavirus pandemic and received unemployment insurance benefits during September are eligible for the program. There is no need to apply.
>> Why: To support struggling residents, boost revenue at restaurants and benefit the state’s local food supply chain, including farmers, fishers, ranchers and distributors.
For more information, visit hawaiirestaurantcard.com/faq.
Source: Hawaii Restaurant Card website
Please be safe and healthy out of this pandemic situation and stay afloat!!
Warmest Aloha
Ryan
Business Manager